U.S. patent application number 16/160023 was filed with the patent office on 2020-04-16 for system and method for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC. Invention is credited to Adedapo A. Alabi, Michael D. Cremona, Timothy J. Frashure, Thomas J. Hayes, Hans M. Molin, Daniel P. Zula.
Application Number | 20200118361 16/160023 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 70160138 |
Filed Date | 2020-04-16 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200118361 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zula; Daniel P. ; et
al. |
April 16, 2020 |
System and Method for Pre-Trip Inspection of a Tractor-Trailer
Abstract
A system and method for pre-trip inspection of a tractor trailer
are provided. The system includes a communications gateway
configured for electronic communication with a vehicle control
system of the tractor-trailer and a computing device configured for
communication with the vehicle control system through the
communications gateway. The device is configured to display an
instruction to a user to perform a task of the pre-trip inspection
and receive an input associated with the task from the user. The
input is indicative of an operating characteristic of the
tractor-trailer. The device may be further configured to determine
whether the operating characteristic meets a predetermined
condition. The device is further configured to transmit an
instruction to the vehicle control system through the
communications gateway when the operating characteristic does not
meet the predetermined condition. The instruction establishes a
restriction on operation of the tractor-trailer.
Inventors: |
Zula; Daniel P.; (North
Ridgeville, OH) ; Molin; Hans M.; (Mission Viejo,
CA) ; Cremona; Michael D.; (Lakewood, OH) ;
Alabi; Adedapo A.; (Elyria, OH) ; Frashure; Timothy
J.; (Columbia Station, OH) ; Hayes; Thomas J.;
(Lakewood, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC |
Elyria |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
70160138 |
Appl. No.: |
16/160023 |
Filed: |
October 15, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07C 5/0808 20130101;
G07C 5/0858 20130101; B60R 25/003 20130101; G07C 5/0866 20130101;
G07C 5/008 20130101; G07C 5/0841 20130101; G01M 17/007
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G07C 5/08 20060101
G07C005/08; B60R 25/00 20060101 B60R025/00; G01M 17/007 20060101
G01M017/007 |
Claims
1. A system for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer,
comprising: a communications gateway configured for electronic
communication with a first vehicle control system of the
tractor-trailer; a computing device configured for communication
with the first vehicle control system of the tractor-trailer
through the communications gateway, the computing device further
configured to display an instruction to a user to perform a first
task of the pre-trip inspection; receive an input associated with
the first task from the user, the input indicative of a first
operating characteristic of the tractor-trailer; and, transmit,
when the first operating characteristic does not meet a first
predetermined condition, a first instruction to the first vehicle
control system through the communications gateway, the first
instruction establishing a first restriction on operation of the
tractor-trailer.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is further
configured, in displaying the instruction, to generate a visual
overlay for a component of the tractor-trailer and, in receiving
the input, to capture an image of the component once the overlay
and the component are aligned on a display of the computing
device.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein the computing device is further
configured to determine whether the first operating characteristic
meets the first predetermined condition by identify a distance
between two points on the component in the image and comparing the
distance to a predetermined distance.
4. The system of claim 2 wherein the computing device is further
configured to determine whether the first operating characteristic
meets the first predetermined condition by identifying a position
of a point on the component in the image and comparing the position
to a predetermined position.
5. The system of claim 2 wherein the computing device is further
configured to determine whether the first operating characteristic
meets the first predetermined condition by comparing the image to
at least one other image.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is further
configured, in receiving the input, to generate an audio recording
during operation of a component of the tractor-trailer and to
determine whether the first operating characteristic meets the
first predetermined condition by comparing the audio recording to a
pre-recorded audio recording.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is further
configured, in receiving the input, to generate a video recording
during operation of a component of the tractor-trailer and to
determine whether the first operating characteristic meets the
first predetermined condition by comparing a plurality of frames in
the video recording.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is configured
for communication with a second vehicle control system of the
tractor-trailer through the communications gateway and is further
configured to receive an input indicative of a second operating
characteristic of the tractor-trailer from the second vehicle
control system through the communications gateway; and, transmit,
when the second operating characteristic does not meet a second
predetermined condition, a second instruction to the first vehicle
control system through the communications gateway, the second
instruction establishing a second restriction on operation of the
tractor-trailer.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein the first restriction comprises a
limitation on movement of the tractor-trailer.
10. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is further
configured to display an indication of the first restriction to the
user.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the input comprises a vehicle
identification number for the tractor-trailer and the first
operating characteristic is a presence or an absence of a second
vehicle control system on the tractor-trailer.
12. The system of claim 12 wherein the first vehicle control system
comprises a vehicle navigation system and the first restriction
comprises a limitation on recommended travel routes by the vehicle
navigation system.
13. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is further
configured to: monitor a location of the user relative to a
location of the tractor-trailer; and, determine whether the
location meets a second predetermined condition; transmit, when the
location does not meet the second predetermined condition, a second
instruction to one of the first vehicle control system and a second
vehicle control system through the communications gateway, the
second instruction establishing a second restriction on operation
of the tractor-trailer.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein the communications gateway is
configured to receive a second instruction from another computing
device outside of the tractor-trailer and other than the computing
device, the second instruction preventing transmission of the first
instruction.
15. The system of claim 1 wherein the computing device is further
configured to receive another input associated with the first task
from the user, the another input indicative of a change in the
first operating characteristic of the tractor-trailer.
16. An article of manufacture, comprising: a non-transitory
computer storage medium having a computer program encoded thereon
that when executed by a controller implements a pre-trip inspection
of a tractor-trailer, the computer program including code for
displaying an instruction to a user to perform a first task of the
pre-trip inspection; receiving an input associated with the first
task from the user, the input indicative of a first operating
characteristic of the tractor-trailer; and, transmitting, when the
first operating characteristic does not meet a first predetermined
condition, a first instruction to a first vehicle control system of
the tractor-trailer, the first instruction establishing a first
restriction on operation of the tractor-trailer.
17. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the code for
displaying the instruction includes code for generating a visual
overlay for a component of the tractor-trailer and the code for
receiving the input includes code for capturing an image of the
component once the overlay and the component are aligned on a
display of the computing device.
18. The article of manufacture of claim 17 wherein the computer
program further includes code for determining whether the first
operating characteristic meets the first predetermined condition
including code for identifying a distance between two points on the
component in the image and comparing the distance to a
predetermined distance.
19. The article of manufacture of claim 17 wherein the computer
program further includes code for determining whether the first
operating characteristic meets the first predetermined condition
including code for identifying a position of a point on the
component in the image and compare the position to a predetermined
position.
20. The article of manufacture of claim 17 wherein the computer
program further includes code for determining whether the first
operating characteristic meets the first predetermined condition
including code for comparing the image to at least one other
image.
21. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the code for
receiving the input includes code for generating an audio recording
during operation of a component of the tractor-trailer and the
computer program further includes code for determining whether the
first operating characteristic meets the first predetermined
condition including code for comparing the audio recording to a
pre-recorded audio recording.
22. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the code for
receiving the input includes code for generating a video recording
during operation of a component of the tractor-trailer and the
computer program further includes code for determining whether the
first operating characteristic meets the first predetermined
condition including code for comparing a plurality of frames in the
video recording.
23. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the computer
program further includes code for: receiving an input indicative of
a second operating characteristic of the tractor-trailer from a
second vehicle control system of the tractor-trailer; and,
transmitting, when the second operating characteristic does not
meet a second predetermined condition, a second instruction to the
first vehicle control system through the communications gateway,
the second instruction establishing a second restriction on
operation of the tractor-trailer.
24. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the first
restriction comprises a limitation on movement of the
tractor-trailer.
25. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the computer
program further includes code for displaying an indication of the
first restriction to the user.
26. The article of manufacture of claim 16 wherein the input
comprises a vehicle identification number for the tractor-trailer
and the first operating characteristic is a presence or an absence
of a second vehicle control system on the tractor-trailer.
27. The system of claim 26 wherein the first vehicle control system
comprises a vehicle navigation system and the first restriction
comprises a limitation on recommended travel routes by the vehicle
navigation system.
28. The article of manufacture of claim 16 computer program further
includes code for: monitoring a location of the user relative to a
location of the tractor-trailer; and, determining whether the
location meets a second predetermined condition; transmitting, when
the location does not meet the second predetermined condition, a
second instruction to one of the first vehicle control system and a
second vehicle control system, the second instruction establishing
a second restriction on operation of the tractor-trailer.
29. A method for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer,
comprising: displaying an instruction to a user to perform a first
task of the pre-trip inspection on a computing device configured
for communication with a first vehicle control system of the
tractor-trailer through a communications gateway on the
tractor-trailer; receiving an input associated with the first task
from the user, the input indicative of a first operating
characteristic of the tractor-trailer; and, transmitting, when the
first operating characteristic does not meet a first predetermined
condition, a first instruction from the computing device to the
first vehicle control system through the communications gateway,
the first instruction establishing a first restriction on operation
of the tractor-trailer.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
a. Field of the Invention
[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for pre-trip
inspection of a tractor-trailer. In particular, this invention
relates to a system and method for pre-trip inspection that enable
an efficient and accurate inspection of the tractor-trailer and
that implement restrictions on operation of the tractor-trailer in
response to issues identified during the inspection.
b. Background Art
[0002] Prior to operation of a tractor-trailer, operators
frequently perform a pre-trip inspection to identify issues that
might compromise safe operation of the tractor-trailer or lead to
violations of government laws and regulations. These inspections
are often time consuming. For example, a manual inspection of each
light on a tractor-trailer is typically required to determine
whether one or more lights is not working--even in tractor-trailers
with bulb-out detection systems (because these systems generally do
not identify the individual light or lights that are not operating
properly). Because of the time required for a complete inspection
of the tractor-trailer, operators that are relatively new or in a
hurry may skip a portion or all of the inspection. Even when a
complete inspection is performed, operators may choose to ignore
issues identified during the inspection and the inspection is, to a
degree, limited by the objectivity of the operator. Failing to
perform a pre-trip inspection, ignoring the results of an
inspection and/or improperly performing an inspection can result in
potential safety hazards or legal violations. There is also
typically no method for a fleet manager to prevent operation of the
vehicle by the operator despite these failures. In addition,
operators also frequently fail to organize and store information
from pre-trip inspections in a manner that can be conveyed to fleet
managers in a timely and useful way.
[0003] The inventors herein have recognized a need for a system and
method for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer that will
minimize and/or eliminate one or more of the above-identified
deficiencies.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] This invention relates to a system and method for pre-trip
inspection of a tractor-trailer. In particular, this invention
relates to a system and method for pre-trip inspection that enable
an efficient and accurate inspection of the tractor-trailer and
that implement restrictions on operation of the tractor-trailer in
response to issues identified during the inspection.
[0005] A system for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer in
accordance with one embodiment includes a communications gateway
configured for electronic communication with a vehicle control
system of the tractor-trailer and a computing device configured for
communication with the vehicle control system of the
tractor-trailer through the communications gateway. The computing
device is further configured to display an instruction to a user to
perform a task of the pre-trip inspection and to receive an input
associated with the task from the user. The input is indicative of
an operating characteristic of the tractor-trailer. The computing
device is further configured to transmit, when the operating
characteristic does not meet a predetermined condition, an
instruction to the vehicle control system through the
communications gateway. The instruction establishes a restriction
on operation of the tractor-trailer.
[0006] An article of manufacture in accordance with one embodiment
includes a non-transitory computer storage medium having a computer
program encoded thereon that when executed by a controller
implements a pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer. The computer
program includes code for displaying an instruction to a user to
perform a task of the pre-trip inspection and receiving an input
associated with the task from the user. The input is indicative of
an operating characteristic of the tractor-trailer. The computer
program further includes code for transmitting, when the operating
characteristic does not meet a predetermined condition, an
instruction to a vehicle control system of the tractor-trailer. The
instruction establishes a restriction on operation of the
tractor-trailer.
[0007] A method for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer in
accordance with one embodiment includes the step of displaying an
instruction to a user to perform a task of the pre-trip inspection
on a computing device configured for communication with a vehicle
control system of the tractor-trailer through a communications
gateway on the tractor-trailer. The method further includes the
step of receiving an input associated with the task from the user.
The input is indicative of an operating characteristic of the
tractor-trailer. The method further includes the step of
transmitting, when the operating characteristic does not meet a
predetermined condition, an instruction from the computing device
to the vehicle control system through the communications gateway.
The instruction establishes a restriction on operation of the
tractor-trailer.
[0008] A system and method for pre-trip inspection of a
tractor-trailer in accordance the present teachings represent an
improvement as compared to conventional systems and methods. The
system and method improve the efficiency of the pre-trip
inspection. The increased efficiency improves operator satisfaction
and operator retention for fleet operators. Because operators are
more likely to adhere to inspection requirements, the system and
method reduces potential safety hazards and legal violations. The
system and method also result in a more coherent organization of
information from pre-trip inspections and rapid communication of
the information to fleet operators. The system and method also
automatically implement restrictions on operation of the
tractor-trailer in response to issues identified during the
inspection, preventing vehicle operators from ignoring issues and
leading to consistent standards of operation within fleets.
[0009] The foregoing and other aspects, features, details,
utilities, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent
from reading the following description and claims, and from
reviewing the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of one embodiment of a system
for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a
method for pre-trip inspection of a tractor-trailer.
[0012] FIGS. 3-7 are flowcharts illustrating more specific
embodiments of the method of FIG. 2.
[0013] FIGS. 8A-8E are screen displays relating to the method
embodiment of FIG. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0014] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference
numerals are used to identify identical components in the various
views, FIG. 1 illustrates a tractor-trailer 10 and one embodiment
of a system 12 for pre-trip inspection of tractor-trailer 10.
Tractor-trailer 10 (also referred to as a semi) contains a truck or
tractor 14 (also referred to as a power unit) and one or more
trailers 16.sub.1 . . . 16.sub.N (also referred to as towed units).
Tractor 14 contains a power unit, such as an internal combustion
engine, and steering and drive axles each of which support one or
more wheels at either end. Trailers 16.sub.1 . . . 16.sub.N are
provided to store freight and are detachably coupled to tractor 14.
Each trailer 16 is supported on one or more trailer axles each of
which may support one or more wheels at either end. Although a pair
of trailers 16 are shown in the illustrated embodiment, it should
be understood that the number of trailers 16 attached to tractor 14
may vary.
[0015] Tractor-trailer 10 includes a variety of vehicle control
systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 for controlling
and/or monitoring the operation of tractor-trailer 10 and
components thereof. Each system 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34,
36 is preferably connected to other devices on tractor-trailer 10
and to other systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 by a
communications bus 38 such as a controller area network (CAN) (or
another communication medium such as power line communication (PLC)
or Local Interconnect Network (LIN)). Each system 18, 20, 22, 24,
26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 can be programmed to run vehicle system and
subsystem diagnostic tests and generate diagnostic trouble codes
(DTCs) that allow a technician to rapidly identify and remedy
malfunctions within tractor-trailer 10. Each system 18, 20, 22, 24,
26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 includes electronic hardware and software
components that may be located throughout tractor-trailer 10. These
components include input devices 40, output devices 42, and a
controller 44.
[0016] Input devices 40 are provided to transmit information and
commands to controller 44. Information may include information on
the operation of tractor-trailer 10, the environment in which
tractor-trailer 10 is operating and nearby objects. Commands may
include commands from an operator of tractor-trailer 10 (e.g.,
desired speed or direction of travel) or from electronic control
components on tractor-trailer 10 including those from other control
systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36. Input devices 40
may comprise sensors that detect operating conditions of
tractor-trailer 10 (including individual systems or components of
tractor-trailer 10 such as an engine or transmission),
environmental conditions relating to the operating environment of
tractor-trailer 10 or characteristics of objects external to
tractor-trailer 10 (e.g., other vehicles, guardrails, etc.)
including the presence or absence of such objects, the position or
change in position of such objects, and movements of such objects.
Exemplary sensors may include wheel speed sensors that are coupled
to each wheel of tractor-trailer 10 and separately report the
rotational velocity of each wheel, a steer angle sensor that
generates a signal indicative of a steering angle imparted by an
operator to a steering wheel in the tractor-trailer 10, a yaw rate
sensor that generates a signal indicative of the angular velocity
of the tractor of tractor-trailer 10 about its vertical (yaw) axis,
pressure sensors that generate signals indicative of the fluid
pressure within fluid conduits, load sensors that generate signals
indicative of the forces at various locations on the vehicle, or
position sensors that are used to detect the position of other
vehicles on the road including, for example, light detection and
ranging (LIDAR) devices, ultrasonic devices, radio detection and
ranging (RADAR) devices, and vision device (e.g., camera, etc.).
Input devices 40 may also comprise operator input devices used to
receive information or commands such as a desired vehicle speed,
desired position relative to other vehicles, and a desired braking
force. The operator input devices may include, for example,
microphones, pedals, levers, buttons, etc. Input devices 40 may
also comprise wireless communication devices such as a telematics
unit that receives information and commands from an external
source.
[0017] Output devices 42 are provided to cause an action in
tractor-trailer 10, including implementation of commands from the
operator of tractor trailer 10 or other vehicle control systems 18,
20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, and/or to convey information.
Output devices 42 may include switches, valves, solenoids, electric
motors, actuators and other devices that are used to cause a
physical action within tractor-trailer 10. Output devices 42 may
also comprise operator output devices used to provide information
including speakers, lights and displays. Output devices 42 may also
comprise wireless communication devices such as a telematics unit
that transmits information to an external destination.
[0018] Controller 44 is provided to monitor or control the
operation of one or more components of tractor-trailer 10.
Controller 44 may comprise a programmable microprocessor or
microcontroller or may comprise an application specific integrated
circuit (ASIC). Controller 44 may include a memory that stores look
up tables or other data structures and software programs.
Controller 44 may also include a central processing unit (CPU) that
executes instructions for software, firmware, programs, algorithms,
scripts, etc. that are stored in memory. Controller 44 may also
include an input/output (I/O) interface including a plurality of
input/output pins or terminals through which the controller 44 may
receive a plurality of input signals and transmit a plurality of
output signals. The input signals may include signals received from
input devices 40 and the output signals may include signals
transmitted to output devices 42. It should be understood that the
functionality of a controller 44 for any of systems 18, 20, 22, 24,
26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 could be subdivided among multiple
controllers configured to communicate with one another over vehicle
communication bus 38 and among controllers for multiple vehicle
control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36.
[0019] Vehicle control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34,
36 may be used to control and/or monitor a wide variety of systems
and components within tractor-trailer 10. The systems may, for
example, include an engine control system 18, a transmission
control system 20, a body control system 22, a brake control system
24, a traction control system 26, a stability control system 28, an
adaptive cruise control system 30, a bulb-out detection system 32,
a collision avoidance system 34, and a navigation system 36 among
other systems
[0020] Engine control system 18 controls various aspects of engine
operation such as the air-fuel mixture in the engine, ignition
timing and idle speed. System 18 may control various valves and
actuators in the engine in response to inputs received from sensors
measuring air flow, pressure, temperature, vehicle speed, emissions
and other parameters.
[0021] Transmission control system 20 controls changes in
transmission gears. System 20 may control solenoids in the vehicle
transmission in response to inputs received from sensors measuring
vehicle speed, throttle position, transmission fluid temperature
and other parameters.
[0022] Body control system 22 controls various electrical
components located throughout tractor-trailer 10, such as interior
and exterior lights, power door locks, power windows, and power
mirrors. System 22 may control various light emitters, switches,
motors and actuators in response to inputs received from operator
input devices and other vehicle control systems 18, 20, 24, 26, 28,
30, 32, 34, 36.
[0023] Brake control system 24 controls application of the wheel
brakes on tractor-trailer 12. Brake control system 24 may control
valves that control fluid pressure delivered to brake actuators in
response to inputs received from sensors measuring wheel speed,
steer angle, and vehicle yaw rate, operator input devices such as a
brake pedal or parking brake control interface and other vehicle
control systems 18, 20, 22, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36. System 24 may
include an anti-lock braking system that modulates fluid pressure
to the brake actuators under certain conditions and a hill start
assist system that controls the release of fluid pressure to the
brake actuators during release of the brakes while the
tractor-trailer is on surface having more than a predetermined
gradient.
[0024] Traction control system 26 controls delivery of power to the
wheels of tractor-trailer 10 to eliminate wheel slip due to, for
example, low friction road surfaces (e.g., icy, snowy or sandy road
surfaces). System 26 controls valves that control fluid pressure
delivered to the brake actuators and/or a throttle valve, fuel
injectors, and/or or spark plugs, to control delivery of air or
fuel and/or spark timing in cylinders of an internal combustion
engine in response to inputs received from sensors measuring wheel
speeds at each wheel.
[0025] Stability control system 28 controls delivery of power to
the wheels of tractor-trailer 10 to maintain vehicle stability
during turns. System 28 controls valves that control fluid pressure
delivered to the brake actuators and/or a throttle valve, fuel
injectors, and/or or spark plugs, to control delivery of air or
fuel and/or spark timing in cylinders of an internal combustion
engine in response to inputs received from sensors measuring wheel
speeds, steer angle, and yaw rate of tractor-trailer 10.
[0026] Adaptive cruise control system 30 controls components of the
power system (e.g., the throttle valve) and brake system of
tractor-trailer 10 to maintain a predetermined speed and/or
position relative to other vehicles and can be used to implement
platooning in multiple tractor-trailers 10. System 30 controls
valves that control air flow through the throttle and/or valves
that control fluid pressure delivered to the brake actuators in
response to inputs received from operator input devices and from
sensors measuring distances and speeds of nearby objects.
[0027] Bulb-out detection system 32 monitors the operational status
of external lights on tractor-trailer 10. System 32 controls an
operator interface (e.g., one or more lights in the cabin of
tractor-trailer 10) in response to inputs received from sensors
measuring the current draw to the lights.
[0028] Collision avoidance system 34 detects and attempts to
mitigate or avoid collisions with objects external to
tractor-trailer 10. System 34 may comprise one or more of a forward
collision warning system, a front automatic braking system, forward
or rear park assist systems, lane departure warning systems, side
blind zone alert systems, side or rear object detection systems, or
rear automatic braking systems. System 34 may control valves that
control fluid pressure delivered to the brake actuators, a throttle
valve, fuel injectors, and/or or spark plugs that control delivery
of air or fuel and/or spark timing in cylinders of an internal
combustion engine, and or motors and actuators controlling vehicle
steering in response to inputs from sensors such as light detection
and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, ultrasonic sensors, radio detection
and ranging (RADAR) sensors, cameras or a combination thereof that
detect characteristics of objects external to the vehicle (e.g.,
other vehicles, guardrails, etc.) including the presence or absence
of such objects, the position or change in position of such
objects, and movements of such objects.
[0029] Navigation system 36 provides directional guidance to the
operator of tractor-trailer 10 and related information. System 36
may control a user interface that is configured to receive
information input by the operator and to generate audio or visual
indications of travel directions, warnings, and information on
local attractions such as restaurants, lodging and tourist sites.
System 36 is configured to receive signals from a global
positioning system (GPS) receiver that is itself configured to
receive signals from GPS satellites and to process the signals from
the receiver to determine the current location of tractor-trailer
10. System 36 is also configured to receive signals from a
telematics unit or other wireless communication system through
which system 36 may receive geographic information (e.g., updated
maps, map annotations (points of interest, restaurants, traffic or
accident information), route calculations and the like). System 36
generates the outputs referenced above in response to destination
information entered at the user interface, location information
from the GPS receiver, and geographic information obtained through
the telematics unit.
[0030] System 12 is provided to facilitate a pre-trip inspection of
tractor-trailer 10. System 12 includes a communications gateway 46
and a computing device 48 for use by the operator of
tractor-trailer 10 or another individual.
[0031] Communications gateway 46 is provided to connect
telecommunication networks using different communication protocols
and, in particular, to connect computing device 48 with vehicle
control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 by
connecting device 48 to communications bus 38. In certain
embodiments, gateway 46 may also be used to connect device 48 with
computing devices external to tractor-trailer 10 including those
used, for example, by fleet managers. Gateway 46 may be embedded
within one or more of control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30,
32, 34, 36 or may exist separate from control systems 18, 20, 22,
24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36. In certain embodiments, gateway 46 may
comprise a tool that can be connected by an operator to
tractor-trailer 10 (e.g., through a vehicle diagnostic port on
tractor-trailer 10). In other embodiments, gateway 46 may comprise
a vehicle telematics system 50. Depending on the configuration of
gateway 46, gateway 46 may communicate with computing device 48
through a wired or wireless connection.
[0032] Telematics system 50 handles communications between
tractor-trailer 10 and remote servers, other vehicles, and other
nearby wireless communication devices such as device 48. System 50
enables wireless voice and/or data communication over a wireless
carrier system and via wireless networking. System 50 may enable
communication between tractor-trailer 10 and a call center, other
telematics-enabled vehicles, or some other entity or device. System
50 can therefore be used to provide a diverse range of vehicle
services that involve wireless communication to and/or from
tractor-trailer 10. Such services include: turn-by-turn directions
and other navigation-related services that are provided in
conjunction with the GPS-based vehicle navigation system 36; airbag
deployment or collision notification and other emergency or
roadside assistance-related services that are provided in response
to signals received from vehicle control systems 18, 20, 22, 24,
26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36; and diagnostic reporting using information
obtained from vehicle control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30,
32, 34, 36. In accordance with the present teachings, system 50
also acts as a communications gateway between computing device 48
and vehicle control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36.
The above-listed services are by no means an exhaustive list of all
of the capabilities of telematics system 50, but are simply an
enumeration of some of the services that the telematics system 50
is capable of offering. System 50 may include a user interface 52,
a pair of network interfaces 54, 56 and a controller 58.
[0033] User interface 52 enables the operator to access or initiate
various services through telematics system 50 and to provide and
receive information from a call center, other telematics-enabled
vehicles or other entity or device. Interface 52 may include any
combination of hardware, software and/or other components that
enable the operator to exchange information or data through system
50 including input devices such as a microphone, one or more
pushbuttons, a touch-screen display allowing user interface 52 to
receive information from the operator, as well as output devices
like speakers, a visual display, or an instrument panel allowing
user interface 52 to provide information to the operator. Some
components of interface 52 may be connected directly to the
telematics system 50 whereas others are indirectly connected using
one or more network connections, such as vehicle communications bus
38.
[0034] Network interface 54 is configured for connection to a
telecommunications network 60. Network 60 may comprise the public
internet, a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN),
virtual private network (VPN) or other form of telecommunications
network. Network 60 may include a wireless carrier system such as a
cellular telephone system 62 that includes a plurality of cell
towers or cellular base stations, one or more 2G/3G mobile
switching centers (MSCs) or 4G+ Evolved Packet Core (EPC) systems
and other networking components required to connect the wireless
carrier system with a land-based telecommunications network 64.
Network 64 may comprise a public switched telephone network (PSTN)
such as that used to provide hardwired telephony, packet-switched
data communications, and the Internet infrastructure. One or more
segments of network 64 could be implemented through the use of a
standard wired network, a fiber or other optical network, a cable
network, power lines, other wireless networks such as wireless
local area networks (WLANs), or networks providing broadband
wireless access (BWA), or any combination thereof. As an
alternative or in addition to the cellular telephone system 62, the
wireless carrier system may comprise a satellite communication
system 66 that provides uni-directional or bi-directional
communication with tractor-trailer 10. The satellite communication
system 66 may include communication satellites and an uplink
transmitting station. Using the wireless carrier network,
telematics system 50 may be connected to network 64 and, through
network 64, to various computing devices 68 including servers and
client computers. Computing devices 68 can be used for various
purposes. In accordance with certain embodiments, computing devices
68 may include devices used by fleet managers to monitor and manage
tractor-trailers 10 within a fleet and which are configured to
receive diagnostic information and other vehicle data uploaded from
tractor-trailer 10 and computing device 48 via the telematics
system 50. According to one embodiment, network interface 54 is
used for cellular communication according to either GSM, CDMA, UMTS
or LTE standards and therefore includes a standard cellular chipset
for voice communications, a wireless modem (not shown) for data
transmission, and a radio transceiver that transmits signals to and
receives signals from a dual antenna for wireless communication
with network 60.
[0035] Network interface 56 communicates with network interface 54
and controller 58 and is configured for wireless connection to one
or more local wireless devices in or near tractor-trailer 10
including computing device 48 to permit mobile computing devices to
access telecommunications network 60 and vehicle communications bus
38 via network interface 54. Network interface 56 may comprise a
wireless network interface controller having a radio transceiver
that is configured for short range wireless communication using
short-range wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11),
WiMAX, Wi-Fi direct, Bluetooth, Zigbee, near field communication
(NFC), etc. and transmits and receives signals through an antenna.
In certain embodiments, interface 56 may alternatively permit a
wired connection with device 48 or other computing devices.
[0036] Controller 58 is provided to control and manage
communications between network interfaces 54, 56. Controller 58 may
include a variety of electronic processing devices, memory devices,
input/output (I/O) devices, and/or other known components, and may
perform various control and/or communication related functions. In
an exemplary embodiment, controller 58 includes an electronic
memory device that stores various look up tables or other data
structures and software programs, etc. Controller 58 may also
include an electronic processing device (e.g., a microprocessor, a
microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC),
etc.) that executes instructions for software, firmware, programs,
algorithms, scripts, etc. that are stored in the memory device.
Controller 58 may be a dedicated controller used only for
telematics systems 50 or can be shared with other vehicle systems.
Controller 58 may be electronically connected to vehicle control
systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 and other vehicle
devices, modules and systems via vehicle communications bus 38.
[0037] Computing device 48 provides a means to guide the operator
through the pre-trip inspection as well as an interface for
communicating information between the operator and communications
gateway 46 (and, through gateway 46, vehicle control systems 18,
20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 and computing devices 68 under
the control of the fleet manager). In certain embodiments, device
48 may comprise a mobile computing device. As used herein, the term
"mobile computing device" refers to a device that (i) is configured
to process data or information in accordance with a set of
executable instructions; (ii) is portable (by a single person) and
may be hand-held; (iii) can draw power from a battery or localized
power source such that the device is not dependent on a wired
connection to a power source external to the device; and (iv) is
capable of at least short-range wireless communication (e.g., Wi-Fi
Direct or Bluetooth) with other one of more telecommunications
networks. In one embodiment, device 48 comprises a cellular phone.
In other embodiments, device may comprise, for example, a tablet or
laptop computer. Device 48 includes a memory 70 (e.g.,
non-transitory computer readable medium) that stores look up tables
or other data structures and software programs and a programmable
processor 72 with a central processing unit (CPU) that executes
instructions for software, firmware, programs, algorithms, scripts,
etc. that are stored in memory 70. Device 48 further includes an
user interface 74 which may include various interface elements
including a display configured to present a graphical user
interface (GUI) to the operator of tractor-trailer 10, a keypad
(e.g., push button and/or touch screen), a microphone, one or more
speakers, a camera and motion-detection sensors (such as
accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc.). In accordance with certain
embodiments, device 48 may further include a global positioning
system (GPS) receiver that receives signals from GPS satellites and
can be used to determine the position of device 48. Device 48 may
be configured to implement various software applications which may
be preinstalled by the user (or manufacturer). In accordance with
the present teachings device 48 may be programmed with appropriate
programming instructions (i.e., software or a computer program) to
implement a method for pre-trip inspection of tractor-trailer 10.
The instructions or computer program may be encoded on a
non-transitory computer storage medium such as a memory within, or
accessible by, processor 72.
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 2, one embodiment of a method for
pre-trip inspection of tractor-trailer 10 may begin with the step
76 of establishing a communications channel between gateway 46 and
device 48. The channel may be established in accordance with
conventional protocols dependent on the communication methodology
used by gateway 46 and device 48 and will preferably comprise
short-range wireless communication (e.g., Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11),
WiMAX, Wi-Fi direct, Bluetooth, Zigbee, near field communication
(NFC), etc.).
[0039] After establishing a communication channel between gateway
46 and device 48, the method may continue with a series of steps
that are designed to generate an inspection of individual
components or systems on tractor-trailer 10. In step 78, device 48
may determine whether tractor-trailer 10 generates data indicative
of operating characteristics for a given component or system of
tractor-trailer 10. As noted above, many vehicle control systems
monitor the operation of individual components within
tractor-trailer 10, perform diagnostic tests, and generate data
including diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) regarding the status of
components of tractor-trailer 10. For example, bulb out detection
system 32 monitors the operational status of external lights on
tractor-trailer 10 and generates signals indicative of the status
of the lights. Brake control system 24, and particularly the
anti-lock braking system within brake control system 24, monitors
the operational status of various components within the braking
system and generates signals indicative of the status of these
components. Device 48 may identify the presence of systems 24 and
32 (and other vehicle control systems) via the connection of device
48 to bus 38 through gateway 46 and extract data/information from
the signals generated by systems 24, 32 (and other vehicle control
systems). If tractor-trailer 10 generates data regarding a
component or system of interest, device 48 may obtain that data in
step 80 through gateway 46 and proceed to step 86 described
hereinbelow.
[0040] If tractor-trailer 10 does not generate data regarding a
component or system for which inspection is required or desirable
or when a manual inspection of the component by the operator of
tractor-trailer 10 is desirable, the method may continue with step
82 in which device 48 displays an instruction to the operator to
perform a task associated with the pre-trip inspection. Device 48
will typically display the instruction on a display associated with
device 48 and typically as part of a graphical user interface. The
instruction may, for example, comprise an instruction to the
operator of tractor-trailer 10 to enter data or information about a
system or component of tractor-trailer 10 through a graphical user
interface on device 48. The instruction may comprise an instruction
to the operator to capture an image of a system or component of
tractor-trailer 10. Device 48 may, for example, instruct the
operator to take an image of a fluid dipstick or hose. The
instruction may comprise an instruction to the operator to capture
a video of a system or component of tractor-trailer 10. Device 48
may, for example, instruct the operator to capture an image of the
operation of a turn signal on tractor-trailer 10. The instruction
may comprise an instruction to the operator to capture an audio
recording of a system or component of tractor-trailer 10. Device 48
may, for example, instruct the operator to capture an audio
recording of a horn on tractor-trailer 10. Each instruction may
include multiple steps including steps that direct the operator to
perform a physical movement (e.g., activating a turn signal or
sounding a horn). Each instruction may further include a variety of
information relating to the instruction including the location of
the component or system, the reasons an inspection is necessary or
desirable, etc.
[0041] The method may continue with the step 84 wherein device 48
receives an input associated with the task from the operator. The
input may comprise text entered by the operator through a graphical
user interface on device 48 using a keyboard, touch screen or other
input device. The input may comprise an image, or a sequence of
images (i.e., a video), captured by the operator using a camera on,
or connected to, device 48. The input may comprise an audio
recording captured by the operator using a microphone on device 48.
If the received input is insufficient in quality, device 48 may
provide additional instructions to the operator to obtain a more
usable input including repeating step 82. These instructions may
include, for example, cleaning of a component of interest or making
positional or lighting adjustments to improve image/video quality
or mitigating nearby sounds to improve audio quality. In addition
to performing any instruction given in step 82 to obtain required
information, the operator may insert additional information such as
notes from observations made by the operator. Provided that the
operator has properly followed the instruction from step 82, the
input will be indicative of an operating characteristic of
tractor-trailer 10 and, in particular, a component or system of
tractor-trailer 10. The operating characteristic may, for example,
relate to the presence or absence of a component or system on
tractor-trailer 10 or the operation of a component or system.
[0042] In step 86, device 48 may determine whether the operating
characteristic of a given component or system in tractor-trailer 10
obtained in step 80 or 84 meets a predetermined condition. In other
embodiments, step 86 may be performed by another computing device
such as device 68 after transmission of the input received in step
84 from device 48 to device 68 through telematics system 50 or,
where device 48 is capable of long-range wireless communication
(e.g., cellular or satellite communication), directly through
network 60 without use of telematics system 50. The nature of the
condition will depend on the component or system being inspected.
In some circumstances, the condition may be that component or
system is present on tractor-trailer 10. For example, the
inspection may be designed to verify the presence of certain safety
components or safety systems on tractor-trailer 10 such as a
stability control system 28 or a particular collision avoidance
system 34. In other circumstances, the condition may be that a
system or component is operational. For example, the inspection may
be designed to verify that exterior lights illuminate when
required, that a turn signal blinks on and off, or that a horn
produces a sound. In other circumstances, the condition may be that
a fluid level is at or above a predetermined fluid level or that a
distance between two parts is greater than or less than (depending
on the nature of the component or system) a predetermined distance.
If the operating characteristic for a given component or system in
tractor-trailer 10 meets the predetermined condition, the component
or system may be considered to pass inspection and the method may
proceed to step 94 discussed hereinbelow.
[0043] If the operating characteristic for a component or system in
tractor-trailer 10 fails to meet the predetermined condition, the
method may continue with the step 87 in which the operator of
tractor-trailer 10 is provided with an opportunity to make
adjustments that alter the value of the operating characteristic of
tractor-trailer obtained in step 84. For example, in the case of a
component having a fluid level below a predetermined minimum level,
the operator may add additional fluid. Device 48 may provide an
indication to the operator that the component or system has failed
to meet the predetermined condition and may further provide an
indication to the operator of any restriction that may be
implemented on operation of the vehicle has a result of the
failure. If the operator makes an adjustment to tractor-trailer 10,
the method may return to step 84 wherein the operator enters a new,
updated input indicative of the adjusted operating characteristic
of the vehicle.
[0044] If the operating characteristic for a component or system in
tractor-trailer 10 fails to meet the predetermined condition in
step 86 and the operator does not make any adjustments to
tractor-trailer 10 in step 87, the method may continue with the
step 88 in which a determination may be made by a fleet operator or
manager for tractor-trailer 10 whether to ignore the negative
inspection result. Step 88 may include several substeps. Step 88
may begin by transmitting the negative inspection result to a
computing device 68 managed by a fleet operator or manager. Device
48 may transmit the inspection result to device 68 through
telematics system 50. Alternatively, where device 48 is capable of
long-range wireless communication (e.g., cellular or satellite
communication), device 48 may transmit the inspection result to
device 68 through network 60 without use of telematics system 50.
Step 88 may continue by receiving an instruction from computing
device 68 regarding handling of the negative inspection result. If
the fleet manager chooses to ignore the negative inspection result,
the instruction from computing device 68 will cause device 48 to
bypass step 90 discussed hereinbelow (thereby preventing
transmission of any instructions imposing restriction on operation
of tractor-trailer 10) and proceed to step 94 discussed
hereinbelow. If the fleet manager believes action is required in
response to the negative inspection result, the method proceeds to
step 90. In the event of a failure to respond by the fleet operator
or manager, device 48 may be configured to proceed to step 90 or 94
directly after a predetermined period of time has passed without
receiving a command from computing device 68.
[0045] In step 90, device 48 transmits an instruction to one or
more vehicle control systems on tractor-trailer through gateway 46
that establish restrictions on the operation of tractor-trailer 10.
Device 48 may transmit the instructions through gateway 46 and on
communications bus 38. Step 90 may include several substeps. Device
48 may begin by identifying an appropriate restriction based on the
component or system of interest. In identifying the appropriate
restriction, device 48 may be configured to take into account a
variety of factors beyond the failure of an operating
characteristic of the component or system to meet the predetermined
condition. For example, device 48 may identify a restriction based
on whether or not the operating characteristic for the component or
system has failed to meet the predetermined conditions on prior
occasions and the number of times the operating characteristic has
failed to meet the predetermined condition. In addition, or
alternatively, device 48 may identify a restriction based on
whether or not the operating characteristics of multiple,
interrelated components or systems have failed to meet
corresponding predetermined conditions. In addition, or
alternatively, device 48 may identify a restriction based on the
degree to which an operating characteristic of a component or
system has failed to meet a predetermined condition (e.g., whether
a fluid level is slightly below or far below a predetermined fluid
level). In this respect, device 48 may select from among varying
levels of restriction on the operation of tractor-trailer 10. Using
the above information, device 48 implement a programmed algorithm
or may access a look up table or other data structure to obtain an
appropriate restriction. The algorithm or data structure may reside
in memory 70 on device 48 or may be obtained from a remote
computing device 68 accessed over network 60 through telematics
system 50 or directly by device 48. In one embodiment, device 48
may select from a range of possible restrictions, one or more of
which places a limitation on movement of tractor-trailer 10. The
limitations may include preventing movement of tractor-trailer 10,
allowing tractor-trailer 10 to operate in "limp home" mode in which
engine power is limited, placing a limit on the maximum speed for
tractor-trailer 10, preventing platooning among multiple
tractor-trailers 10, allowing tractor-trailer 10 to engage in
platooning, but only as the lead vehicle, and permitting
platooning, but preventing full autonomous driving in
tractor-trailers 10 having that capability. Device 48 may also
instruct tractor-trailer 10 to implement other restrictions
including limiting the number of trailers 16 or load, limiting use
of certain gears in transmission control system 20, adjusting
parameters for braking in braking system 24 or for warnings in
collision avoidance system 34, adjusting the permitted following
distance in adaptive cruise control system 30 or preventing
navigation system 46 from recommending routes that include
significant curves or changes in elevation. It should be understood
that the list of restrictions set forth above is exemplary. Once an
appropriate restriction is identified, device 48 transmits an
instruction through gateway 46 to an appropriate vehicle control
system such as one of systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34,
36 in tractor-trailer 10. It should be understood that the
instruction and restriction from device 48 may be directed to a
vehicle control system that is not directly related to the
component or system being inspected. For example, a negative
inspection result for a component of brake control system 24 may
result in a restriction on operation of the engine in engine
control system 20.
[0046] Device 48 may also be configured, in step 92, to display an
indication of the restriction to the user. Device 48 may notify the
operator of the existence and/or nature of the restriction in a
variety of ways including through an indication on a display screen
of device 48. Although step 92 is shown as occurring after step 90
in the embodiment of FIG. 2, it should be understood that 92 could
be performed contemporaneously with step 90.
[0047] In step 94, device 48 determines whether the inspection is
complete. In the case of a comprehensive, pre-defined pre-trip
inspection, device 48 may determine in step 94 whether the current
component or system under inspection is the final component or
system designated for inspection within a pre-defined inspection
routine. If not, the method may return to the step 78 and repeat
steps 78 through 92 for the next component or system. If the
current component or system is the final component or system
designated for inspection, method may continue with the step 96. In
the case of a diagnostic inspection (e.g., due to a suspected
failure of a specific component or system) the operator may
indicate that the inspection will be limited to one or more
specific components or systems through interface 74 on device 48
after the communications channel is established in step 76. In such
an embodiment, device 48 may determine in step 94 whether the
inspection of the current component or system designated for
inspection by the operator is the final component or system
designated for inspection by the operator. If not, the method may
return to step 78 and repeat steps 78 through 92 for the next
component or system designated by the operator. If the current
component or system is the final component or system designated for
inspection by the operator, the method may continue with step 96.
In step 96, an inspection report is transmitted to computing device
68 over network 60. Device 48 may transmit the report through
telematics unit 50 or may again transmit the report directly to
device 68 if device 48 is capable of long-range wireless
communication. In addition to information or data gathered from
operator inputs in step 84, determinations in step 86 and the
nature of any restrictions implemented in step 90, the report may
include information regarding the location of tractor-trailer 10,
the date and time of the inspection, the vehicle identification
number (VIN) or other identifying information regarding
tractor-trailer 10 and identifying information for the individual
performing the pre-trip inspection. In the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 2, the steps are performed in succession for a single
component or system and then repeated for additional components or
systems. It should be understood, however, that the steps could be
performed in a different order. For example, in another embodiment,
device 48 could be configured to perform 82, 84 for each component
before performing step 86 or any subsequent step for any individual
component.
[0048] During performance of the method in FIG. 2, device 48 may
also be configured to monitor the location of the operator relative
to a location of the vehicle as the inspection is performed to
insure a proper inspection. In particular, device 48 may monitor
the location of the operator by monitoring the position of device
48 using a GPS receiver on device 48 in order to ensure that the
inspection is being completed in a predetermined order and/or
within a predetermined timeframe. Device 48 may be further
configured to determine whether the location of the operator meets
a predetermined condition (e.g., is at a predetermined location, is
at a predetermined distance from the vehicle and/or has traveled
over a predetermined distance and/or within a predetermined time)
and, when the location does not meet the predetermined condition
(thereby indicating a failure to perform some aspect of the
inspection), to transmit an instruction to one of the vehicle
control systems 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 through
gateway 46 to establish a restriction on operation of
tractor-trailer 10 including one or more of the restrictions set
forth above. Device 48 may further transmit a notification
regarding the improper inspection to a computing device 68 of the
fleet manager or operator through network 60 either directly or
through telematics system 50. The notification may be included in
the inspection report transmitted in step 96. In addition to
performing these actions (transmitting instructions to the
tractor-trailer restricting operation and/or transmitting
notifications to the fleet manager or operator) based on movements
of the operator, these actions may be performed based on other
indicators of an improper inspection including input text that does
not make sense in context to the particular task, a recorded image
or video that does not show the component of system of interest or
cannot be processed due to image quality or other issues, or an
audio recording with too much noise from the surrounding
environment, etc.
[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 3-7, several more specific
embodiments of the method for pre-trip inspection of
tractor-trailer 10 are shown. Referring to FIG. 3, in one
embodiment, device 48 may instruct the operator in step 823 to
obtain the vehicle identification number (VIN) for tractor-trailer
10 and, subsequently, in step 843, receive an input corresponding
to the VIN. Device 48 may instruct the operator to enter the VIN
through a graphical user interface on display 48 using an input
device such as a keyboard or touch screen. Alternatively, device 48
may instruct the operator to capture an image of the VIN on
tractor-trailer 10 using a camera on or connected to device 48 and
then may process the image to retrieve the VIN. Referring again to
FIG. 2, it should also be understood that the VIN could potentially
be obtained directly from information available on the vehicle
communications bus 38 in steps 78, 80. The VIN may be indicative of
various operating characteristics of tractor-trailer 10 including
the type of tractor-trailer 10 and the presence or absence of
various vehicle control systems on tractor 14. Information linking
the VIN to information regarding tractor 14 may be maintained in a
data structure in a memory accessible by device 48 including
locally on device 48 or, more likely, on a remote computing device
68 accessible through network 60 either directly by device 48 or
through telematics system 50. Referring again to FIG. 3, in step
863, device 48 may determine based on the VIN whether
tractor-trailor 10 includes certain components or systems. For
example, device 48 may determine whether tractor-trailer 10
includes stability control system 28. If tractor-trailer 10 does
not include stability control system 28, device 48 may transmit an
instruction to tractor-trailer 10 in step 903 through gateway 46
that establishes a restriction on the operation of tractor-trailer
10. In one embodiment, device 48 may transmit an instruction to
navigation system 46 that prevents system 46 from recommending a
travel route having roads having a relatively high number or degree
of curves or a relatively large change in elevation. In another
embodiment, device 48 may determine in step 863 whether
tractor-trailer 10 includes a functioning hill start assist system.
If tractor-trailer 10 does not include a functioning hill start
assist system, device 48 may transmit an instruction in step 903 to
navigation system 46 that prevents system 46 from recommending a
travel route having roads having a relatively large change in
elevation.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, in another embodiment, device 48 may
instruct the operator in step 824 to enter the number of trailers
16 for tractor-trailer 10 and, subsequently, in step 844, receive
an input corresponding to the number of trailers 16. Device 48 may
instruct the operator to enter the number of trailers 16 through a
graphical user interface on display 48 using an input device such
as a keyboard or touch screen. Alternatively, device 48 may
instruct the operator to capture an image of the tractor-trailer 10
using a camera on or connected to device 48 and then may process
the image to retrieve the number of trailers 16. In step 864,
device 48 may determine whether the number of trailers 16 meets a
predetermined condition (e.g., is equal to a predetermined number
or is greater than or less than a predetermined number). If device
48 determines that the number of trailers 16 does not meet the
predetermined condition, device 48 may transmit an instruction to
tractor-trailer 10 in step 904 through gateway 46 that establishes
a restriction on the operation of tractor-trailer 10. In one
embodiment, device 48 may transmit an instruction to cruise control
system 30 or another vehicle system that may be used to implement
limitations on platooning with other tractor-trailers 10. Device 48
may alternatively transmit instructions to brake control system 24
to adjust various control parameters for system 24. In addition to
establishing restrictions on tractor-trailer 10, the number of
trailers input in step 844 may be used in other ways including, for
example, in adjusting the scope of the pre-trip inspection to
increase or decrease the number of components requiring
inspection.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 5, in another embodiment, device 48 may
instruct the operator in step 825 to capture an image of a
component or system of tractor-trailer 10 and, subsequently, in
step 845, to receive an image generated by the operator using
device 48 indicative of an operating characteristic of the
component or system. Referring to FIGS. 8A-8E, in accordance with
one aspect of the system and method disclosed herein, device 48 may
be configured in step 825 to generate a visual overlay 98 for a
component of tractor-trailer 10 and, in step 845, to capture an
image of the component once the overlay 98 and the component are
aligned on a display of device 48. Device 48 may recognize
alignment of the overlay 98 and component of interest by processing
the image shown in the display including analysis of open space (or
lack thereof) between the overlay 98 and component based on colors,
etc. The visual overlay 98 may, for example, comprise a fitted
outline for a component as shown in FIGS. 8A-8E, or a transparent
image of the entire component. The visual overlay 98 is intended to
ensure that the image captured by the operator in step 825 and
received by device 48 in step 845 is configured for subsequent
image processing by device 48 (e.g., has an appropriate size, angle
of view and depth) so that the desired operating characteristic of
the tractor-trailer 10 can be identified from the image. Referring
again to FIG. 5, the method may continue with the step 865 of
determining whether the operating characteristic of tractor-trailer
10 identified in the image meets a predetermined condition.
Referring to FIGS. 8A-8C, in one embodiment, device 48 may identify
a distance d between two points on the component shown in the image
and compare that distance to a predetermined distance or may
identify a position of a point of interest p on the component in
the image and compare that position to a predetermined position.
This action may be useful, for example, in determining whether a
fluid level is at an appropriate level. In the case of engine
coolant (FIG. 8A), transmission fluid, lubricants (FIG. 8B), etc.,
device 48 may process the image to determine a distance between a
first point on the image and a point on the image indicative of the
fluid level and compare that distance to a predetermined distance
to determine whether the fluid level is at an acceptable level or
identity a position of a point on the image indicative of the fluid
level and compare that position to a predetermined position. The
comparison may also be useful in determining whether a component is
an acceptable position. Referring to FIG. 8C, in the case of a
brake slack adjuster 100, for example, device 48 may process the
image to determine a distance along a pushrod 102 of a brake
actuator between the brake actuator housing 104 and slack adjuster
100 and compare this distance to a predetermined distance to
determine whether the slack adjuster 100 is in an acceptable
position. Alternatively, device 48 may process the image to
identify a position of a point on the slack adjuster within the
image and compare that position to a predetermined position to
determine whether the slack adjuster is at an appropriate position.
Referring to FIGS. 8D-8E, in another embodiment, device 48 may be
configured in step 865 to compare the image captured in step 825
and received in step 845 to one or more previously obtained images.
This action may be useful, for example, in determining whether one
or more components shows signs of undesirable levels of wear or
damage. In the case of a hose (FIG. 8D) or air bag (FIG. 8E),
device 84 may compare the captured image to stored images to
identify differences in color that are indicative of cracks or
other forms of wear or damage. Visual overlays 98 for a
tractor-trailer 10 are specific to a tractor-trailer 10 and may,
for example, be downloaded by device 48 from a remote computing
device 68 either directly or through telematics system 50 using the
VIN for the tractor-trailer 10 which may be obtained by device 48
in the manner set forth above in the description of FIG. 3.
[0052] If device 48 determines in step 865 that the operating
characteristic of tractor-trailer 10 does not meet a predetermined
condition (e.g., that a fluid level is less than predetermined
minimum fluid level or that a component has an undesirable
opening), device 48 may apply an appropriate restriction in step
905 including one or more of the restrictions identified
hereinabove.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 6, in another embodiment, device 48 may
instruct the operator in step 826 to capture a video of a component
or system of tractor-trailer 10 during operating of the component
or system and, subsequently, in step 846, generate a video
recording based on actions of the operator during operation of the
component or system. The video will include information indicative
of an operating characteristic of the component or system. For
example, device 48 may instruct the operator to capture video
showing operating of a turn signal of the tractor-trailer 10 to
indicate whether the turn signal is operating properly. In step
866, device 48 may determine whether an operating characteristic of
the turn signal (e.g., that the signal is blinking on and off
and/or that the signal is blinking on and off at a desired
frequency) meets a predetermined condition (e.g., is blinking
and/or is blinking at above a predetermined frequency). Device 48
may make this determination by comparing a plurality of frames in
the video recording in which changes in color or brightness in one
or more pixels of the image is indicative of an on or off state of
the turn signal. If device 48 determines in step 865 that the
operating characteristic of tractor-trailer 10 does not meet a
predetermined condition (e.g., that the turn signal is not blinking
on and off or is doing so at too low a frequency), device 48 may
apply an appropriate restriction in step 906 including one or more
of the restrictions identified hereinabove.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 7, in another embodiment, device 48 may
instruct the operator in step 827 to capture an audio recording of
a component or system of tractor-trailer 10 during operating of the
component or system and, subsequently, in step 847, generate an
audio recording based on actions of the operator during operation
of the component or system. The audio recording will include
information indicative of an operating characteristic of the
component or system. For example, device 48 may instruct the
operator to capture audio evidencing operation of a horn of the
tractor-trailer 10 to indicate whether the horn is operating
properly. Because sound is dependent on distance, device 48 may be
configured to monitor the location of device 48 and to verify that
location meets a predetermined condition (e.g., in the cabin of
tractor 14 or within a certain distance of tractor-trailer 10) when
the audio recording is generated. Device 48 may monitor its
location using a GPS receiver on device 48. When the location of
device 48 does not meet the predetermined condition, device 48 may,
for example, be configured to display an instruction to the
operator to move device 48 to a different location and repeat the
task, transmit an instruction to one of the vehicle control systems
18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 through gateway 46 to
establish a restriction on operation of tractor-trailer 10, or
transmit a notification regarding the improper inspection to a
computing device 68 of the fleet manager or operator through
network 60 either directly or through telematics system 50. In step
867, device 48 may determine whether an operating characteristic of
the horn (e.g., that the horn is making a sound and/or that the
horn is sufficiently loud) meets a predetermined condition (e.g.,
is making a sound and/or is making a sound above a predetermined
decibel level). Device 48 may make this determination by comparing
the audio recording to one or more pre-recorded audio recordings of
the horn. If device 48 determines in step 867 that the operating
characteristic of tractor-trailer 10 does not meet a predetermined
condition (e.g., that the horn is not making a sound and/or is not
making a sound that is sufficiently loud), device 48 may apply an
appropriate restriction in step 907 including one or more of the
restrictions identified hereinabove.
[0055] A system 12 and method for pre-trip inspection of a
tractor-trailer 10 in accordance the present teachings represent an
improvement as compared to conventional systems and methods. The
system 12 and method improve the efficiency of the pre-trip
inspection. The increased efficiency improves operator satisfaction
and operator retention for fleet operators. Because operators are
more likely to adhere to inspection requirements, the system 12 and
method reduces potential safety hazards and legal violations. The
system 12 and method also result in a more coherent organization of
information from pre-trip inspections and rapid communication of
the information to fleet operators. The system 12 and method also
automatically implement restrictions on operation of the
tractor-trailer 10 in response to issues identified during the
inspection, preventing vehicle operators from ignoring issues and
leading to consistent standards of operation within fleets.
[0056] While the invention has been shown and described with
reference to one or more particular embodiments thereof, it will be
understood by those of skill in the art that various changes and
modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention.
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